El Grito Final (mixed media, 2007) stands apart from much of John Sierra’s usual work. While his art often centers on themes of Chicano culture, identity, and family, this piece evokes a much darker tone than his typically soft and colorful style.
El Grito Final is a statement on war. The haunting central figure (humanoid in form, with upraised arms and simplified eyes and mouth) conveys a profound sense of fear. The figure lacks fine detail, composed instead of basic shapes. This simplicity is intentional, as Sierra believes that emotion can be powerfully expressed without an intricate presence of detail. Behind the figure, the outlines of two barking dogs heighten the sense of danger, and a slight mist covers all figures.
Visually, the composition shifts in tone and texture. The center of the artwork is darker and more textured than the flat border, the result of Sierra’s use of ground metal treated with a solution to create a rusted effect. This technique gives the piece a raw, almost primitive quality.
Although the subject matter and aesthetic differ from his usual themes, El Grito Final reflects Sierra’s commitment to experimentation. His willingness to explore new techniques while maintaining emotional depth speaks to his continued evolution as an artist.
El grito final is part of F. John Sierra Retrospective at Arte Américas.
Written by Arte América’s Cultural Arts Fellow (2025), Andrea Martínez.